Tenzin Nyidon
DHARAMSHALA, July 3: Veteran Tibetan independence activist Lobga Rangzen self-immolated in front of the United Nations Headquarters in New York on July 2 at around 5:49 pm. He sustained severe burn injuries and was immediately rushed to Bellevue Hospital for emergency treatment.
Reliable sources confirmed to Phayul that he succumbed to his injuries at approximately 7:04 pm the same evening. He was a Tibetan refugee who lived in New York and worked as a cab-driver. He also served as the President of Tibetan National Congress’s New York/New Jersey chapter.
His death comes a day after the implementation of China’s new so-called “Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress Law,” a sweeping legislation that exile Tibetans describe as codification of genocide in Tibet.
In a video posted on his personal Facebook account prior to the act, Lobga Rangzen issued a detailed political statement addressing Tibetans in exile and expressing strong criticism of Chinese repressive policies in Tibet. He also called on Tibetans in exile to unite and work collectively for Tibetan independence and to remain united in the ongoing freedom struggle movement.
He alleged that the policies implemented by the Chinese government in Tibet were aimed at eroding Tibetan identity, culture, and language. He called on Tibetans in exile to increase their commitment and effort toward the Tibetan cause, stressing that meaningful outcomes, in his view, required sustained and concrete action.
He highlighted the role of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in establishing democratic governance in exile through the devolution of political authority and the creation of the Tibetan government in exile known officially as the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA). He described the system as a historic responsibility entrusted to Tibetans in exile to continue their national struggle while living in democratic conditions.
He also stated that Tibetans in exile represent those living under Chinese rule in Tibet, reflecting the Dalai Lama’s broader vision of exile leadership as a voice for those inside Tibet.
He further accused Chinese authorities of widespread political repression across all Tibetan regions, including restrictions on free speech and religious expression, and limitations on displaying images of the Tibetan spiritual leader. He said Tibetans were subjected to these conditions due to the absence of an independent homeland.
He appealed for unity among the Tibetan Parliament in Exile (TPiE), the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), and the broader Tibetan community. He urged them to set aside internal disagreements and work collectively toward the political goal of Tibet’s future independence.
He also emphasized the importance of cultural continuity, urging Tibetans not to cancel or tone down upcoming celebrations of the Dalai Lama’s birthday. Instead, he encouraged continued observance of songs, dances, and cultural festivities as expressions of Tibetan identity and heritage.
In his statement, he clarified that his action was not driven by personal deprivation or survival, but was intended as a political act related to Tibet’s worsening situation. He urged Tibetans to preserve their identity, remain committed to their cultural roots, and continue what he described as the long-term struggle for Tibet.
Following the news of his death, groups of Tibetan demonstrators gathered near the United Nations Headquarters, holding candlelight vigils and calling for justice for Lobga Rangzen. Protesters also urged the United Nations to take immediate steps to investigate alleged human rights violations in occupied Tibet.
